21825f 77758

Analog and Interface Product Solutions
Signal Chain Design Guide

Devices For Use With Sensors
Design ideas in this guide use the following devices. A complete device list and corresponding data sheets for these
products can be found at www.microchip.com/analog.
Operational
Amplifiers
MCP6XX
MCP6XXX
MCP6V01/2/3
MCP6V06/7/8
Comparators
MCP654X
MCP656X
Analog-to-Digital
Converters
MCP3421
MCP3422/3/4
MCP355X
MCP3901
Temperature
Sensors
MCP9800
MCP9804
MCP9700/A
MCP9701/A
Voltage
References
MCP1525
MCP1541
Digital
Potentiometers
MCP40XX
MCP40D1X
MCP41XX
MCP42XX
MCP43XX
MCP45XX
MCP46XX
MCP41XXX
MCP42XXX
Digital-to-Analog
Converters
MCP4725
MCP4728
MCP482X
MCP492X
www.microchip.com/analog
Signal Chain Overview

Typical sensor applications involve the monitoring of sensor
parameters and controlling of actuators. The sensor signal
chain, as shown below, consists of analog and digital
domains. Typical sensors output very low amplitude analog
signals. These weak analog signals are amplied and ltered,
and converted to digital using op amps, an analog-to-digital
or voltage-to-frequency converter, and is processed at the
MCU. The analog sensor output typically needs proper signal
conditioning before it gets converted to a digital signal.
The MCU controls the actuators and maintains the operation

of the sensor signal conditioning circuits based on the
condition of the signal detection. For the digital to analog
feedback path, the digital-to-analog converter (DAC), digital
potentiometer and Pulse-Width-Modulator (PWM) devices are
most commonly used. The MOSFET driver is commonly used
for the interface between the feedback circuit and actuators
such as motors and valves. Microchip offers a large portfolio
of devices for signal chain applications.
Typical Sensor Signal Chain Control Loop

Analog Domain
Digital Domain
Sensors
Indicator
(LCD, LED)
Reference
Voltage
MUX
Filter
ADC/
V-to-Freq
Op
Amp
PIC MCU
or dsPIC
DSC
Digital
Potentiometer
Actuators
Motors, Valves,
Relays, Switches,
Speakers, Horns,
LEDs
Driver
(MOSFET)
Op Amp
DAC/PWM
Sensor Overview
Many system applications require the measurement of a
physical or electrical condition, or the presence or absence
of a known physical, electrical or chemical quantity. Analog
sensors are typically used to indicate the magnitude or
change in the environmental condition, by reacting to the
condition and generating a change in an electrical property
as a result.
Typical phenomena that are measured are:
Electrical Signal and Properties
Magnetic Signal and Properties
Temperature
Humidity
Force, Weight, Torque and Pressure
Motion and Vibration
Flow
Fluid Level and Volume
Light and Infrared
Chemistry/Gas
There are sensors that respond to these phenomena by

producing the following electrical properties:
Voltage
Current
Resistance
Capacitance
Charge
This electrical property is then conditioned by an analog
circuit before being converted to a digital circuit. In this way,
the environmental condition can be measured and the
system can make decisions based on the result.
The table below provides an overview of typical phenomena,
the type of sensor commonly used to measure the
phenomena and electrical output of the sensor.
For additional information, please refer to Application Note
AN990.
Summary Of Common Physical Conditions and Related Sensor Types

Phenomena
Magnetic
Temperature
Humidity
Force, Weight, Torque, Pressure
Motion and Vibration
Flow
Fluid Level and Volume
Light
Chemical
Sensor
Hall Effect
Magneto-Resistive
Thermocouple
RTD
Thermistor
IC
Infrared
Thermopile
Capacitive
Infrared
Strain Gauge
Load Cell
Piezo-electric
Mechanical Transducer
LVDT
Piezo-electric
Microphone
Ultrasonic
Accelerometer
Magnetic Flowmeter
Mass Flowmeter
Ultrasound/Doppler
Hot-wire Anemometer
Mechanical Transducer (turbine)
Ultrasound
Mechanical Transducer
Capacitor
Switch
Thermal
Photodiode
pH Electrode
Solution Conductivity
CO Sensor
Photodiode (turbidity, colorimeter)
Electrical Output
Voltage
Resistance
Voltage
Resistance
Resistance
Voltage
Current
Voltage
Capacitance
Current
Resistance/Voltage
Resistance
Voltage or Charge
Resistance, Voltage, Capacitance
AC Voltage
Voltage or Charge
Voltage
Voltage, Resistive, Current
Voltage
Voltage
Resistance/Voltage
Frequency
Resistance
Voltage
Time Delay
Resistance, Voltage
Capacitance
On/Off
Voltage
Current
Voltage
Resistance/Current
Voltage or Charge
Current
Product Overviews
Operational Amplifiers (Op Amps)
Analog-to-Digital Converters (ADC)
Microchip Technology offers a broad portfolio of op amp

families built on advanced CMOS technology. These families
are offered in single, dual and quad configurations, which
are available in space saving packages.
These op amp families include devices with Quiescent
Current (IQ) per amplifier between 0.6 A and 6 mA, with
a Gain Bandwidth Product (GBWP) between 10 kHz and
60MHz, respectively. The op amp with lowest supply voltage
(VDD) operates between 1.4V and 6.0V, while the op amp
with highest VDD operates between 6.5V and 16.0V.
These op amp families fall into the following categories:
General Purpose, Low Offset, Auto-zeroed, High Speed, Low
Noise and mCal (self calibrating input offset voltage (VOS)).
Microchip offers a broad portfolio of high-precision

Delta-Sigma, SAR and Dual Slope A/D Converters. The
MCP3550/1/3 Delta-Sigma ADCs offer up to 22-bit
resolution with only 120 A typical current consumption in
a small 8-pin MSOP package. The MCP3421 is a single
channel Delta-Sigma ADC and is available in a small 6-pin
SOT-23 package. It includes a voltage reference and PGA.
The user can select the conversion resolution up to 18 bits.
The MCP3422/3 and the MCP3424 are two channel and
four channel versions, respectively, of the MCP3421 device.
The MCP300X (10-bit), MCP320X (12-bit) and MCP330X
(13-bit) SAR ADCs combine high performance and low
power consumption in a small package, making them ideal
for embedded control applications. The TC5XX Dual Slope
ADC devices offer another alternative with up to 17-bits of
conversion resolution.
The Analog-to-Digital Converter Design Guide (Microchip
Document No. 21841) shows various application examples
of the ADC devices.
Microchip also offers many high accuracy energy metering
devices which are based on the Delta-Sigma ADC cores.
The Complete Utility Metering Solution Guide (Microchip
Document No: 24930) offers detailed solutions for metering
applications.
Comparators
The MCP6541 and MCP6561 family of comparators
provide ultra low power, 600 nA typical, and higher speed
with 40 ns propagation delay, respectively. The MCP6541
family low operating current is suitable for battery powered
application and the output drive capability is ideal for alert
buzzer driver applications. The MCP6561 family with greater
than 4 MHz toggle frequency is ideal for higher speed
embedded system applications where sinusoidal output
from sensors to square wave conversion is needed. The
47ns typical propagation delay also makes this device ideal
for microprocessor interface. Both families of comparators
are available with single, dual and quad as well as with
push-pull and open-drain output options (MCP6546 and
MCP6566).
Programmable Gain Amplifier (PGA)

The MCP6S21/2/6/8 and MCP6S91/2/3 PGA families
give the designer digital control over an amplifier using
a serial interface (SPI bus). An input analog multiplexer
with 1, 2, 6 or 8 inputs can be set to the desired input
signal. The gain can be set to one of eight non-inverting
gains: +1, 2, 4, 5, 8, 10, 16 and 32 V/V. In addition, a
software shutdown mode offers significant power savings
for portable embedded designs. This is all achieved in one
simple integrated part that allows for considerably greater
bandwidth, while maintaining a low supply current. Systems
with multiple sensors are significantly simplified.
The MCP6G01 family are analog Selectable Gain Amplifiers
(SGA). The Gain Select input pin(s) set a gain of +1V/V,
+10 V/V and +50 V/V. The Chip Select pin on the
MCP6G03 puts it into shutdown to conserve power.
Voltage References
Microchip offers the MCP15XX family of low power and low
dropout precision Voltage References. The family includes
the MCP1525 with an output voltage of 2.5V and the
MCP1541 with an output voltage of 4.096V. Microchips
voltage references are offered in SOT23-3 and TO-92
packages.
Product Overviews
Digital Potentiometers
Digital-to-Analog Converters (DAC)
Microchips family of digital potentiometers offer a wide

range of options. These devices support the 6-bit through
8-bit applications. Offering both volatile and non-volatile
options, with digital interfaces from the simple Up/
Down interface to the standard SPI and I2C interfaces.
These devices are offered in small packages such as
6-lead SC70 and 8-lead DFN for the single potentiometer
devices, 14-lead TSSOP and 16-lead QFN packages for the
dual potentiometer devices, and 20-lead TSSOP and QFN
packages for the quad potentiometer devices. Non-volatile
devices offer a Wiperlock Technology feature, while volatile
devices will operate down to 1.8V. Resistances are offered
from 2.1k to 100 k. Over 50 device configurations are
currently available.
The Digital Potentiometer Design Guide (Microchip
Document No. 22017), shows various application examples
of the digital potentiometer devices.
Microchip has a number of Digital-to-Analog Converters that

range from high performance 12-bit devices to cost effective
8-bit devices.
The MCP4725 is a single channel 12-bit DAC with nonvolatile memory (EEPROM). The user can store DAC input
code and configuration register bits into the EEPROM. This
non-volatile memory feature enables the device to hold
the DAC input code during power-off time allowing the DAC
output to be available immediately after power-up. This
feature is very useful when the DAC is used as a supporting
device for other device operations in systems. The
MCP4725 is availabe in a tiny SOT23-6 package.
The MCP4728 is a 12-bit DAC with four analog outputs. This
device also has non-volatile memory (EEPROM) for each DAC
channel. The user can select internal reference or VDD as
reference individually for each channel. The MCP4725 and
MCP4728 are available with I2C serial interface.
The MCP4821/2 family of 12-bit DACs combines high
performance with an internal reference voltage and SPI
interface. The MCP4921/2 family is similar and allows
for an external reference. These DAC devices provide
high accuracy and low noise, and are ideal for industrial
applications where calibration or compensation of signals
(such as temperature, pressure and humidity) is required.
The TC1320/1 family of DACs has 8- and 10-bit precision
that uses the 2-wire SMBus/I2C serial interface protocol.
Local Sensors
Local Sensing
Sensors and Applications
Local sensors are located relatively close to their signal

conditioning circuits, and the noise environment is not
severe; most of these sensors are single ended (not
differential). Non-inverting amplifiers are a good choice for
amplifying most of these sensors output because they have
high input impedance, and require a minimal amount of
discrete components.
Single Sensors
Thermistors for battery chargers and power supply
temperature protection
Humidity Sensors for process control
Pyroelectric infrared intrusion alarms, motion detection
and garage door openers
Smoke and fire sensors for home and office
Charge amplifier for Piezoelectric Transducer detection
Thermistor for battery chargers and home thermostats
LVDT position and rotation sensors for industrial control
Hall effect sensors for engine speed sensing and door
openers
Photoelectric infrared detector
Photoelectric motion detectors, flame detectors, intrusion
alarms
Key Amplifier Features

Low Cost
General Purpose Op Amps
High Precision
Low Offset Op Amps
Auto-zeroed Op Amps
Low Noise Op Amps
Rail-to-Rail Input/Output
Most Op Amp families
High Input Impedance
Almost all Op Amp families
Low Power and Portable Applications
Low Power Op Amps
High Bandwidth and Slew Rate
High Speed Op Amps
Load Drive
High Output Drive Op Amps
Multiple Local Sensors

Temperature measurement at multiple points on a Printed
Circuit Board (PCB)
Sensors that require temperature correction
Weather measurements (temperature, pressure, humidity,
light)
Capacitive Humidity Sensor Circuit
(PIC16F690DM-PCTLHS)
Classic Gain Amplier
VDD_DIG
C1
100 nF
U1
PIC16F690
P1
VINT
RINT
R6.65 M
IINT
P4
Timer1
VOUT
VSEN
CSEN
VCM
P2
P3
PH Monitor
MCP6XX,
MCP6XXX
CCG
SR
Latch
VDD
C2
100 nF
U2
Comparator
MCP6291
VREF
CCM
100 nF
RCM1
20 k
RCM2
20 k
Remote Sensors
Remote Sensing
Products
All sensors in a high noise environment should be

considered as remote sensors. Also, sensors not located
on the same PCB as the signal conditioning circuitry
are remote. Remote sensing applications typically use a
differential amplifier or an instrumentation amplifier.
High Precision
Low Offset Op Amps
Auto-zeroed Op Amps
Low Noise Op Amps
High temperature sensors
Thermocouples for stoves, engines and process control
RTDs for ovens and process control
Wheatstone Bridges
Pressure Sensors for automotive and industrial control
Strain gauges for engines
Low side current monitors for motors and batteries
Key Amplifier Features

Differential Input
Large CMR
Small VOS
Differential Amplier
VREF
EMI
VOUT
EMI
MCP6V02
MCP6V07
MCP617
MCP6V01 Thermocouple Auto-zeroed Reference Design (MCP6V01RD-TCPL)

PC
(Thermal Management Software)
Using USB
PIC18F2550 (USB) Microcontroller
I2C Port
CVREF
10-bit ADC Module

VOUT2
x1
2nd Order RC
Low-Pass Filter
3
VSHIFT
SDA
SCLK
ALERT
Cold Junction
Compensation
MCP9800
Temp Sensor
MCP1541 4.1V
Voltage Reference
VOUT1
Difference
Amplifier
VREF
Type K Thermocouple
Weld Bead
Connector
Oscillator Circuits For Sensors

The block diagram below shows a typical system
level design, including the state-variable oscillator,
PIC microcontroller and temperature sensor (used for
temperature correction).
RC Operational Amplifier Oscillators

For Sensor Applications
Op Amp or state-variable oscillators can be used to
accurately measure resistive and capacitive sensors.
Oscillators do not require an analog-to-digital converter and
provide a sensor measurement whose conversion to digital
has an accuracy limited only by the reference clock signal.
State-variable oscillators are often used in sensor
conditioning applications because they have a reliable
start-up and a low sensitivity to stray capacitance.
Absolute quartz pressure sensors and humidity sensors
are examples of capacitive sensors that can use the
state-variable oscillator. Also, this circuit can be used with
resistive sensors, such as RTDs, to provide temperature-tofrequency conversion.

Resistive Sensors
RTDs
Humidity
Thermistors
Capacitive Sensors
Humidity
Pressure
Oil Level
Related Application Notes:
AN895: Oscillator Circuits for RTD Temperature Sensors
AN866: Designing Operational Amplifier Oscillator Circuits
for Sensor Applications
Available on the Microchip web site at: www.microchip.com
Oscillator Circuits for Sensors

C1
R1 = RTDA
R4
R2 = RTDB
R7
MCP6294
2/4 MCP6234
MCP6004
VDD/2
VDD/2
MCP6294
1/4 MCP6234
MCP6004
VDD/2
3/4 MCP6294
MCP6234
MCP6004
VDD
VOUT
MCP6541
MCP6561
Attributes:
VDD
R5
Precision dual Element RTD

Sensor Circuit
Reliable Oscillation Startup
Freq. (R1 x R2)1/2
VDD/2
R6
R8
R3
VDD/2
C4
C2
C5
4/4 MCP6294
MCP6234
MCP6004
Oscillator Circuits for Sensors
R1 = RTD
Attributes:
VDD
C1
A1
VOUT
MCP6541
MCP6561
R2
VDD
R3
R4
Low Cost Solution

Single Comparator Circuit
Square Wave Output
Freq. = 1/ (1.386 x R1 x C1)
Wheatstone Bridge
Bridge Sensor Circuit
steps (if any) should be used to increase the overall system

resolution when using the MCP355X. In many situations, the
MCP355X devices can be used to directly digitize the sensor
output, eliminating any need for external signal conditioning
circuitry.
Using the absolute pressure sensor as our Wheatstone
bridge example, the NPP-301 device has a typical full
scale output of 60 mV when excited with a 3V battery. The
pressure range for this device is 100 kPa. The MCP3551
has a output noise specication of 2.5 VRMS.
The following equation is a rst order approximation of the
relationship between pressure in pascals (P) and altitude (h),
in meters.
Sensors for temperature, pressure, load or other physical excitation quantities are most often configured in a
Wheatstone bridge configuration. The bridge can have
anywhere from one to all four elements reacting to the
physical excitation, and should be used in a ratiometeric
configuration when possible, with the system reference
driving both the sensor and the ADC voltage reference. By
using the same reference for both the sensor excitation and
ADC, the variation in the reference can be cancelled out.
Furthermore, the output voltage from the bridge sensor is
proportional to the excitation voltage. Therefore, the ADC
that is using the external reference is more popular than
the ADC that is using internal reference, for the ratiometric
configuration.
One example sensor from GE NovaSensor is an absolute
pressure sensor, shown below, a four element varying
bridge. This example uses the MCP355X family of delta
sigma ADCs. When designing with the MCP355X family
of 22-bit delta-sigma ADCs, the initial step should be to
evaluate the sensor performance and then determine what
log(P) 5
h
15500
Using 60 mV as the full scale range and 2.5 V as the

resolution, the resulting resolution from direct digitization in
meters is 0.64 meters or approximately 2 feet.
It should be noted that this is only used as an example for
discussion; temperature effects and the error from a rst
order approximation must be included in nal system design.
Example of Wheatstone Bridge Sensor Configuration with High Resolution Delta-Sigma ADC
0.1 F 1.0 F
To VDD
NPP-301
2
VIN+
R2
R1
1
VREF
R3
R4
8
VDD
SCK
MCP3551 SDO
VINCS
3
VSS
SPI
MCU
5, 6, 7
Altimeter Watch
V ~ [(R2+ R4) - (R1+R3)]/4R * VDD
With R1 = R2 = R3 = R4 = R
Delta-Sigma ADCs
Voltage and Current Measurment Using
Delta-Sigma ADCs
MCP3422 Analog-to-Digital Converter (ADC) Feature Summary
The MCP342X family devices are easy-to-use high precision

delta sigma ADC devices from Microchip. These devices have
an internal reference (2.048V) with a user programmable
PGA (x1, x2, x4, x8). The ADC resolution is programmable as
12-bit, 14-bit, 16-bit or 18-bit by the user.
This ADC family offers single, dual and four differential
input channels. Because of its simplicity and low price, this
device family can be used for various applications from
simple voltage and current measurement to high precision
temperature measurement.
Bit Resolution
18 bits (User can select 18-, 16-,

14- or 12-bit options)
Number of Differential Input

Channels
Internal Programmable Gain

Amplifier
x1, x2, x4 or x8 (user option)
INL Error (Typical)
10 PPM of full scale range
Offset Error (Typical)
15 V
Internal Reference Voltage
2.048V
Output Noise (Typical)
1.5 Vrms
Gain Error (Typical)
0.05% of full scale range
Interface
I2C
Voltage Measurement Using MCP3421 Device
R1
+
VBAT
ADC
ADC
VBAT
R2
MCP3421
MCP3421
MCU
MCU
(a) If VREF < VBAT
(b) If VREF > VBAT
________
R2
VIN = ( R1 + R2 ) (VBAT)
(R1 + R2)
1
VMeasured = ADC Output Codes LSB _________ _____
R2
PGA
Reference Voltage
LSB = ________________
2 N 1
2.048V
Reference Voltage ______
LSB of 18-bit ADC = ________________
=
= 15.625 V
2 N 1
217
Current Measurement Using MCP3421 Device

Current Sensor
Wireless Temperature Monitoring Solution
To Load
2.4 GHz
Charging
Current
Discharging
Current
+
Battery
ADC
Heat
18-bit ADC
MCP3421
+
MCP3421
MRF24J40
(Thermocouple)
MCU
Current = (Measured Voltage)/(Known Resistance Value of Current Sensor)

Direction of current is determined by sign bit (MSB bit) of the ADC output code.
10
MCP9804
Temp Sensor
1C
PIC MCU
Delta-Sigma ADCs
Temperature Measurements Using 4 Channel ADC (MCP3424)
See Thermocouple Reference Design (TMPSNSRD-TCPL1)
Thermocouple Sensor
Isothermal Block
(Cold Junction)
Isothermal Block
(Cold Junction)
MCP3424
Delta-Sigma ADC
MCP9804
SCL
SDA
0.1 F
CH1+
CH4- 14
CH1-
CH4+ 13
CH2+
CH3- 12
CH2-
CH3+ 11
VSS
Adr1 10
VDD
Adr0
SDA
SCL
MCP9804
SDA
SCL
VDD
MCP9804
MCP9804
10 F
SDA
SCL
Heat
SCL
SDA
SCL
SDA
5 k
To MCU
5 k
VDD
11
Thermistor and RTD Solutions

Thermistor Solutions
RTD Solution
Typically, thermistors require an external resistor for biasing.

In addition, the inherent non-linearity of a thermistor is
improved by biasing the thermistor in a resistive ladder
circuit to linearize the temperature-to-voltage conversion.
Typically, the thermistor voltage is directly connected to an
ADC to digitize the voltage measurement. The measured
voltage is converted to temperature using a lookup table.
However, at hot and cold temperature extremes the nonlinearity of this approach is much greater with reduced
change in voltage, which results in lower accuracy. This
requires higher resolution and a more costly ADC.
The solution is to use Microchips Linear Active Thermistors,
the MCP9700 and MCP9701. These are low-cost voltage
output temperature sensors that replace almost any
Thermistor application solutions. Unlike resistive type
sensors such as Thermistors, the signal conditioning
and noise immunity circuit development overhead can be
avoided by using the low-cost Linear Active Thermistors.
These sensors output voltage is proportional to ambient
temperature with temperature coefcient of 10 mV/C and
19.5 mV/C. Unlike thermistors, these devices do not require
additional computation for temperature measurement.
The factory set coefcients provide linear interface to
measure ambient temperatures (refer to AN1001 for sensor
optimization).
Resistive Temperature Detectors (RTDs) are highly accurate

and repeatable temperature sensing elements. When
using these sensors a robust instrumentation circuit is
required and it is typically used in high performance thermal
management applications such as medical instrumentation.
This solution uses a high performance Delta-Sigma Analogto-Digital converter, and two resistors to measure RTD
resistance ratiometrically. A 0.1C accuracy and 0.01C
measurement resolution can be achieved across the RTD
temperature range of -200C to +800C with a single point
calibration.
This solution uses a common reference voltage to bias
the RTD and the ADC which provides a ratio-metric relation
between the ADC resolution and the RTD temperature
resolution. Only one biasing resistor, RA, is needed to set the
measurement resolution ratio (shown in equation below).
MCP9700 and MCP9701 Key Features

SC70, TO92 packages
Operating temperature range: -40C to +150C
Temperature Coefcient: 10 mV/C (MCP9700)
Temperature Coefcient: 19.5 mV/C (MCP9701)
Low power: 6 A (typ.)
RTD Resistance
RRTD = RA
(2 n Code
1 Code)
Where:
Code = ADC output code
RA = Biasing resistor
n = ADC number of bits
(22 bits with sign, MCP3551)
For instance, a 2V ADC reference voltage (VREF) results in
a 1V/LSb (Least Signicant Bit) resolution. Setting RA=
RB=6.8 k provides 111.6 V/C temperature coefcient
(PT100 RTD with 0.385/C temperature coefcient). This
provides 0.008C/LSb temperature measurement resolution
for the entire range of 20 to 320 or -200C to +800C. A
single point calibration with a 0.1% 100 resistor provides
0.1C accuracy as shown in the gure below.
This approach provides a plug-and-play solution with
minimum adjustment. However, the system accuracy
depends on several factors such as the RTD type, biasing
circuit tolerance and stability, error due to power dissipation
or self-heat, and RTD non-linear characteristics.
Applications
Refrigeration equipment
Power supply over temperature protection
General purpose temperature monitoring
RTD Instrumentation Circuit Block Diagram and Output Performance (see Application Note AN1154)
VDD
VLDO
C*
C*
VREF
1 F
VDD
PIC
MCU
3
SPI
0.1
RB 5%
RA 1%
VREF
+
RTD
MCP3551
*See LDO Data Sheet at: www.microchip.com/LDO
12
Measured Accuracy (C)
LDO
0.05
0
-0.05
-0.1
-200
200
400
Temperature (C)
600
800
Programmable Gain Using Digital Potentiometers

Programmable Amplier Gain Using a
Digital Potentiometer
Many sensors require their signal to be amplied before
being converted to a digital representation. This signal gain
may be done with and operational amplier. Since all sensors
will have some variation in their operational characteristics,
it may be desireable to calibrate the gain of the operational
amplier to ensure an optimal output voltage range.
The gure below shows two inverting amplier with
programmable gain circuits. The generic circuit (a) where R1,
R2, and Pot1 can be used to tune the gain of the inverting
amplier, and the simplied circuit (b) which removes
resistors R1 and R2 and just uses the digital potentiometers
RAW and RBW ratio to control the gain.
The simplied circuit reduces the cost and board area but
there are trade-offs (for the same resistance and resolution),
Using the R1 and R2 resistors allows the range of the gain
to be limited and therefore each digital potentiometer step
is a ne adjust within that range. While in the simplied
circuit, the range is not limited and therefore each digital
potentiometer step causes a larger variation in the gain.
The feedback capacitor (CF) is used for circuit stability.
Equation 1-1 shows how to calcultate the gain for the

simplied circuit (Figure 1-1b). The gain is the ratio of the
digital potentiometers wiper position on the RAB resistor
ladder. As the wiper moves away from the midscale value,
the gain will either become greater then one (as wiper moves
towards Terminal A), or less then one (as wiper moves
towards Terminal B).
The devices wiper resistance (RW) is ignored for rst order
calculations. This is due to it being in series with the op amp
input resistance and the op amp input impedence is very
large.
Circuit Gain Equation
VOUT = RBW x VIN
RAW
RBW =
RAB
x Wiper Code
# of Resistors
RAW = # of Resistors Wiper Code x RAB

# of Resistors
Inverting Amplifier with Programmable Gain Circuits

Generic Circuit (a)
Pot1
R1
VIN
R2
CF
Op Amp(1)
VOUT
+
Simplified Circuit (b)
Pot1
VIN
CF
Op Amp(1)
VOUT
+
Note 1: A general purpose op amp, such as the MCP6001.
13
Programmable Gain Using Digital Potentiometers

The table below shows a comparison of the gain between the
circuits (a and b) in Figure 1-1 when using the same Digital
Potentiometer (10 k, 7-bit). What you also see is that
when R1 = R2 = 10 k, the circuits gain range is between 1
and 3. While when the simplied circuit is used (effectively
having R1 = R2 = 0) the circuits gain range is between ~0
and >127. Therefore the capability for ner calibration of
the circuit is capable with the generic circuit, albeit with a
narrower range.
Some devices have an even number of step resistors (RS)
in the RAB string, while others have an odd number. In
the simplied circuit, devices with an even number of RS
resistors have a mid-scale wiper value that is unity gain.
For devices with an odd number of RS resistors have a midscale wiper value that is near unity gain. The MCP4261 is an
example of a device that has an even number of RS resistors
in the RAB string, while the MCP4011 is an example of a
device that has an odd number of RS resistors in the RAB
string.
For devices with an odd number of RS resistors in the RAB
string to be able to have an exact unity gain, the device
would need to be used in the generic circuit conguration
(Figure 1-1), and the components would need to be selected
so R1 + RAW could equal R2 + RBW.
Amplifier Gain vs. Wiper Code and RW

# of
Taps
129
# of
Resistors
128
10 k Gain
Wiper
Code
Simplified Circuit(1)
Generic Circuit(1, 2)
0
1
2
3
4
0.0
0.007874
0.015873
0.024000
0.032258
1.000000
1.007843
1.015748
1.023715
1.031746
Zero Scale
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
62
63
64
65
66
0.939394
0.969231
1.000000
1.031746
1.064516
1.639175
1.652850
1.666667
1.680628
1.694737
Mid Scale
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
124
125
126
127
128
31.000000
41.666667
63.000000
127.000000
Divide Error(3)
2.878788
2.908397
2.938462
2.968992
3.000000
Full Scale
Note 1: Gain = ( (RAB / # of Resistors) * Wiper Code ) /( ( (# of Resistors - Wiper Code) / # of Resistors) * RAB)
2: Uses R1 = R2 = 10 k.
3: Theoretical calculations. At full scale in the simplified circuit a divide by 0 error results.
14
Comment
Sensor Circuit Calibration using a DAC

Setting the DC Set Point for Sensor Circuit
A common DAC application is digitally controlling the set
point and/or calibration of parameters in a signal chain. The
gure below shows controlling the DC set point of a light
detector sensor using the MCP4728 12-bit quad DAC device.
The DAC provides 4096 output steps. If G = 1 and internal
reference voltage options are selected, then the internal
2.048 VREF would produce 500 V of resolution. If G = 2 is
selected, the internal 2.048 VREF would produce 1 mV of

resolution. If a smaller output step size is desired, the output
range would need to be reduced. So, using gain of 1 is a
better choice than using gain of 2 conguration option for
smaller step size, but its full-scale range is one half of that
of the gain of 2. Using a voltage divider at the DAC output is
another method for obtaining a smaller step size.
Setting the DC Set Point

Light
VDD
Comparator 1
RSENSE
R1
VTRIP1
Light
R2
MCP6544(1/4)
0.1 F
VDD
Comparator 2
VDD
RSENSE
R1
R3
1
10
VOUT D
SDA
VOUT C
LDAC
VOUT B
RDY/BSY
VOUT A
MCP4728
Quad DAC
VSS
Light
VDD
Analog Outputs
Comparator 3
RSENSE
VOUT = VREF x Dn GX
4096
R2
VTRIP = VOUT x R1 + R2
Where Dn = Input Code (0 to 4095)
GX = Gain Selection (x1 or x2)
R1
VTRIP3
R2
Light
MCP6544(3/4)
0.1 F
VDD
Comparator 4
RSENSE
R1
VTRIP4
R2
0.1 F
To MCU
R6
VDD
SCL
MCP6544(2/4)
0.1 F
R5
R2
R4
VTRIP2
10 F
0.1 F
MCP6544(4/4)
15
Mindi Amplifier Designer & Simulator

Mindi Amplier Designer & Simulator
Mindi Active Filter Designer & Simulator

The Mindi Active Filter Designer & Simulator is an Application
Circuit within the Mindi Circuit Designer & Simulator that
provides full schematic diagrams of the active lter circuit
with recommended component values and displays the signal
responses in frequency and time domains.
The Mindi Active Filter Designer & Simulator allows the
design of low-pass lters up to an 8th order lter with
Chebychev, Bessel or Butterworth approximations from
frequencies of 0.1 Hz to 1 MHz. It also can be used to
design band-pass and high-pass lters with Chebychev and
Butterworth approximations. The circuit topologies supported
by the tool are the Sallen Key and Multiple Feedback (MFB).
The low-pass lters can use either the Sallen Key or MFB, the
band-pass lter is available with the MFB and the high-pass
lter uses the Sallen Key.
The Mindi Amplier Designer & Simulator is an Application

Circuit that generates full schematic diagrams of an amplier
circuit with recommended component values and displays
the signal responses in frequency and time domains.
This application circuit allows the following designs:
Inverting Amplier
Non-inverting Amplier
Voltage Follower
Difference Amplier
Inverting Summing Amplier
Inverting Comparator
Inverting Differentiator
Inverting Integrator
Once the amplier characteristics have been identied,
the Mindi Amplier Designer & Simulator can generate and
simulate the schematic of the amplier circuit. For maximum
design exibility, changes in resistor and capacitor values
can be implemented to t the demands of the application.
The tool also generates a Design Summary of the designed
amplier, including Design Requirements, Application
Schematic, Result Plot and Bill of Materials (BOM). Users
can directly download the schematic, BOM and Mindi ofine
version.
16
Users can select a at pass-band or sharp transition from

pass-band to stop-band. Other options, such as minimum
ripple factor, sharp transition and linear phase delays are
available. Once the lter characteristics have been identied,
the Mindi Active Filter Designer & Simulator can generate
and simulate the schematic of lter circuit. For maximum
design exibility, changes in resistor and capacitor values can
be implemented to t the demands of the application. The
tool will recalculate all values to meet the desired response,
allowing real-world values to be substituted or changed as
part of the design process. The tool also generates a Bill of
Materials (BOM) of the designed lter.
Both of these tools are available on the Microchip web site
(www.microchip.com) under Design & Simulation Tools or
on the Mindi home page (http://www.microchip.com/mindi).
The op amps and evaluation boards can also be ordered
from the Microchip web site.
Development Tools
These following development boards support the the
development of signal chain applications. These product
families may have other demonstration and evaluation
boards that may also be useful. For more information visit
www.microchip.com/analogtools
ADCs
MCP3421 Battery Fuel Gauge Demo
(MCP3421DM-BFG)
The MCP3421 Battery Fuel Gauge Demo
Board demonstrates how to measure the
battery voltage and discharging current
using the MCP3421. The MCU algorithm
calculates the battery fuel being used.
This demo board is shipped with 1.5V AAA non-rechargeable
battery. The board can also charge a single-cell 4.2V Li-Ion
battery.
MCP3551 Tiny Application (Pressure) Sensor Demo
DACs
MCP4725 PICtail Plus Daughter Board
(MCP4725DM-PTPLS)
This daughter board demonstrates the
MCP4725 (12 bit DAC with non-volatile
memory) features using the Explorer 16
Development Board and the PICkit Serial
Analyzer.
MCP4725 SOT-23-6 Evaluation Board (MCP4725EV)

The MCP4725 SOT-23-6 Evaluation Board
is a quick and easy evaluation tool for
the MCP4725 12-bit DAC device. It works
with Microchips popular PICkit Serial
Analyzer or independently with the customers applications
board. The PICkit Serial Analyzer is sold separately.
(MCP355XDM-TAS)
This 1 x 1 board is designed to
demonstrate the performance of the
MCP3550/1/3 devices in a simple low-cost
application. The circuit uses a ratiometric
sensor configuration and uses the system
power supply as the voltage reference. The
extreme common mode rejection capability of the MCP355X
devices, along with their excellent normal mode power
supply rejection at 50 and 60 Hz, allows for excellent system
performance.
MCP4728 Evaluation Board (MCP4728EV)
MCP3551 Sensor Application Developers Board
(MCP6031DM-PTPLS)
The MCP6031 Photodiode PICtail Plus
Demo Board demonstrates how to use a
transimpedance amplifier, which consists of
MCP6031 high precision op amp and external
resistors, to convert photo-current to voltage.
(MCP355XDV-MS1)
The MCP355X Sensor Developers Board
allows for easy system design of high
resolution systems such as weigh scale,
temperature sensing, or other small
signal systems requiring precise signal
conditioning circuits. The reference design includes LCD
display firmware that performs all the necessary functions
including ADC sampling, USB communication for PC data
analysis, LCD display output, zero cancellation, full scale
calibration, and units display in gram (g), kilogram (kg) or
ADC output units.
MCP3901 ADC Evaluation Board for 16-bit MCUs

(MCP3901EV-MCU16)
The MCP3901 ADC Evaluation Board for
16-bit MCUs system provides the ability to
evaluate the performance of the MCP3901
dual channel ADC. It also provides a
development platform for 16-bit PIC based
applications, using existing 100-pin PIM
systems.
The MCP4728 Evaluation Board is a tool for quick

and easy evaluation of the MCP4728 4-channel
12-bit DAC device. It contains the MCP4728
device and connection pins for the Microchips
popular PICkit SerialAnalyzer. The PICkit Serial
Analyzer is sold separately.
Op Amps
MCP6031 Photodiode PICtail Plus Demo Board
MCP651 Input Offset Evaluation Board

(MCP651EV-VOS)
The MCP651 Input Offset Evaluation
Board is intended to provide a simple
means to measure the MCP651 Input
Offset Evaluation Board op amps input
offset voltage under a variety of operating
conditions. The measured input offset voltage (VOST) includes
the input offset voltage specified in the data sheet (VOS)
plus changes due to: power supply voltage (PSRR), common
mode voltage (CMRR), output voltage (AOL), input offset
voltage drift over temperature (VOS/TA) and 1/f noise.
17
Development Tools
MCP6V01 Input Offset Demo Board
Thermocouple Reference Design (TMPSNSRD-TCPL1)
(MCP6V01DM-VOS)
The MCP6V01 Input Offset Demo Board
is intended to provide a simple means to
measure the MCP6V01/2/3 op amps input
offset voltage (VOS) under a variety of bias
conditions. This VOS includes the specified
input offset voltage value found in the data
sheet plus changes due to power supply voltage (PSRR),
common mode voltage (CMRR), output voltage (AOL) and
temperature (IVOS/ITA).
The Thermocouple Reference

Design demonstrates how to
instrument a Thermocouple and
accurately sense temperature over
the entire Thermocouple measurement range. This solution
uses the MCP3421 18-bit Analog-to-Digital Converter (ADC)
to measure voltage across the Thermocouple.
MCP661 Line Driver Demo Board (MCP661DM-LD)

This demo board uses the MCP661 in a
very basic application for high speed op
amps; a 50 line (coax) driver. The board
offers a 30 MHz solution, high speed PCB
layout techniques and a means to test AC response, step
response and distortion. Both the input and the output are
connected to lab equipment with 50 BNC cables. There
are 50 terminating resistors and transmission lines on the
board. The op amp is set to a gain of 2V/V to overcome the
loss at its output caused by the 50 resistor at that point.
Connecting lab supplies to the board is simple; there are
three surface mount test points provided for this purpose.
MCP6V01 Thermocouple Auto-Zero Reference Design

(MCP6V01RD-TCPL)
The MCP6V01 Thermocouple Auto-Zeroed
Reference Design demonstrates how to use
a difference amplifier system to measure
electromotive force (EMF) voltage at the
cold junction of thermocouple in order to accurately measure
temperature at the hot junction. This can be done by using
the MCP6V01 auto-zeroed op amp because of its ultra low
offset voltage (VOS) and high common mode rejection ratio
(CMRR).
MCP6XXX Active Filter Demo (MCP6XXXDM-FLTR)

This kit supports Mindi Active Filter
Designer & Simulator and active filters
designed by FilterLab V2.0. These filters
are all pole and are built by cascading
first and second order sections.
Amplifier Evaluation Board 1

(MCP6XXXEV-AMP1)
The MCP6XXX Amplifier Evaluation Board 1
is designed to support inverting/
non-inverting amplifiers, voltage followers,
inverting/non-inverting comparators,
inverting/non-inverting differentiators.

(MCP6XXXEV-AMP2)
The MCP6XXX Amplifier Evaluation Board 2
supports inverting summing amplifiers and
non-inverting summing amplifiers.

(MCP6XXXEV-AMP3)
The MCP6XXX Amplifier Evaluation Board
3 is designed to support the difference
amplifier circuits which are generated by the
Mindi Amplifier Designer.

(MCP6XXXEV-AMP4)
The MCP6XXX Amplifier Evaluation Board
4 is designed to support the inverting
integrator circuit.
18
Temp Sensors
MCP9800 Temp Sensor Demo Board
(MCP9800DM-TS1)
The MCP9800 Temperature Sensor
Demo Board demonstrates the sensors
features. Users can connect the demo
board to a PC with USB interface and
evaluate the sensor performance. The
7-Segment LED displays temperature in degrees Celsius or
degrees Fahrenheit; the temperature alert feature can be
set by the users using an on board potentiometer. An alert
LED is used to indicate an over temperature condition. In
addition, temperature can be datalogged using the Microchip
Thermal Management Software Graphical User Interface
(GUI). The sensor registers can also be programmed using
the GUI.
MCP6S26 PT100 RTD Evaluation Board

(TMPSNS-RTD1)
The PT100 RTD Evaluation Board
demonstrates how to bias a Resistive
Temperature Detector (RTD) and
accurately measure temperature. Up
to two RTDs can be connected. The
RTDs are biased using constant current source and the
output voltage is scaled using a difference amplifier. In
addition to the difference amplifier, a multiple input channel
Programmable Gain Amplifier (PGA) MCP6S26 is used to
digitally switch between RTDs and increase the scale up to
32 times.
Development Tools
RTD Reference Design Board (TMPSNSRD-RTD2)
The RTD Reference Design demonstrates how to implement
Resistive Temperature Detector (RTD) and accurately
measure temperature. This solution uses the MCP3551
22-bit Analog-to-Digital Converter (ADC) to measure voltage
across the RTD. The ADC and the RTD are referenced using
an onboard reference voltage and the ADC inputs are directly
connected to the RTD terminals. This provides a ratio metric
temperature measurement. The solution uses a current
limiting resistor to bias the RTD. It provides a reliable and
accurate RTD instrumentation without the need for extensive
circuit compensation and calibration routines.
In addition, the this reference design includes a silicon
temperature sensor, MCP9804. This sensor is used for
comparison only, it is not needed to instrument an RTD. The
MCP3551 and MCP9804 outputs are read using a USB PIC
microcontroller. This controller is also connected to a PC
using USB interface. The thermal management software is
used plot the RTD temperature data in stripchart format.
Thermocouple Reference Design Board

(TMPSNSRD-TCPL1)
The Thermocouple Reference Design demonstrates how
to implement a thermocouple and accurately sense
temperature over the entire thermocouple measurement
range. This solution uses the MCP3421 18-bit Analogto-Digital Converter (ADC) to measure voltage across the
Thermocouple. The ADC has an internal 2.048V reference
voltage and a Programmable Gain Amplifier with 1, 2, 4,
8V/V. At a Gain of 8 V/V the PGA effectively adds 3 LSb
to the ADC. This increases the ADC resolution to 21-bit
or 2 V/LSb. Therefore, the Thermocouple EMF voltage is
measured with 2 V resolution. For K-type thermocouple,
measurement system provides a 0.05C resolution. The
cold-junction compensation is done using a 1C accurate
0.0625C resolution silicon temperature sensor, the
MCP9804. This solution provides a reliable and accurate
Thermocouple instrumentation without the need for
extensive circuit compensation and calibration routines.
19
Related Support Material

The following literature is available on the Microchip web
site: www.microchip.com/appnotes. There are additional
application notes that may be useful.
Sensor Conditioning Circuits Overview

Operational amplifier (op amp) oscillators can be used
to accurately measure resistive and capacitive sensors.
Oscillator design can be simplified by using the procedure
discussed in this application note. The derivation of the
design equations provides a method to select the passive
components and determine the influence of each component
on the frequency of oscillation. The procedure will be
demonstrated by analyzing two state-variable RC op-amp
oscillator circuits.
AN895: Oscillator Circuits for RTD Temperature Sensors
This application note shows how to design a temperature
sensor oscillator circuit using Microchips low-cost
MCP6001 operational amplifier (op amp) and the MCP6541
comparator. Oscillator circuits can be used to provide
an accurate temperature measurement with a Resistive
Temperature Detector (RTD) sensor. Oscillators provide a
frequency output that is proportional to temperature and are
easily integrated into a microcontroller system.
AN990: Analog Sensor Conditioning Circuits An Overview
Analog sensors produce a change in an electrical property
to indicate a change in its environment. this change in
electrical property needs to be conditioned by an analog
circuit before conversion to digital. Further processing occurs
in the digital domain but is not addressed in this application
note.
Delta-Sigma ADCs
AN1007: Designing with the MCP3551 Delta-Sigma ADC
The MCP3551 delta-sigma ADC is a high-resolution
converter. This application note discusses various design
techniques to follow when using this device. Typical
application circuits are discussed first, followed by a section
on noise analysis.
AN1030: Weigh Scale Applications for the MCP3551
This application note focusses specifically on load cells,
a type of strain gauge that is typically used for measuring
weight. Even more specifically, the focus is on fully active,
temperature compensated load cells whose change in
differential output voltage with a rated load is 2 mV to
4 mV per volt of excitation (the excitation voltage being the
difference between the +Input and the Input terminals of
the load cell).
AN1156: Battery Fuel Measurement Using Delta-Sigma
ADC Devices
This application note reviews the battery fuel measurement
using the MCU and ADC devices. Developing battery fuel
measurement in this manner provides flexible solutions and
enables economic management.
DS21841: Analog-to-Digital Converter Design Guide
20
SAR ADCs
AN246: Driving the Analog Inputs of a SAR A/D Converter
This application note delves into the issues surrounding the
SAR converters input and conversion nuances to insure that
the converter is handled properly from the beginning of the
design phase.
AN688: Layout Tips for 12-Bit A/D Converter Application
This application note provides basic 12-bit layout guidelines,
ending with a review of issues to be aware of. Examples of
good layout and bad layout implementations are presented
throughout.
AN693: Understanding A/D Converter Performance
Specifications
This application note describes the specifications used to
quantify the performance of A/D converters and give the
reader a better understanding of the significance of those
specifications in an application.
AN842: Differential ADC Biasing Techniques, Tips and
Tricks
True differential converters can offer many advantages over
single-ended input A/D Converters (ADC). In addition to their
common mode rejection ability, these converters can also be
used to overcome many DC biasing limitations of common
signal conditioning circuits.
AN845: Communicating With The MCP3221 Using
PIC Microcontrollers
This application note will cover communications between the
MCP3221 12-bit A/D Converter and a PIC microcontroller.
The code supplied with this application note is written as
relocatable assembly code.
Passive Keyless Entry (PKE)

TB090: MCP2030 Three-Channel Analog Front-End Device
Overview
This tech brief summarizes the technical features of the
MCP2030 and describes how the three channel stand-alone
analog front-end device can be used for various bidirectional
communication applications.
AN1024: PKE System Design Using the PIC16F639
This application note described how to make hands-free
reliable passive keyless entry applications using the
PIC16F639 a dual die solution device that includes both
MCP2030 and PIC16F636.
Utility Metering
Refer to DS01008: Utility Metering Solutions

Digital Potentiometers
AN691: Optimizing the Digital Potentiometer in Precision
Circuits
In this application note, circuit ideas are presented that
use the necessary design techniques to mitigate errors,
consequently optimizing the performance of the digital
potentiometer.
AN692: Using a Digital Potentiometer to Optimize a
Precision Single Supply Photo Detect
This application note shows how the adjustability of the
digital potentiometer can be used to an advantage in
photosensing circuits.
AN1080: Understanding Digital Potentiometer Resistance
Variations
This application note discusses how process, voltage and
temperature effect the resistor networks characteristics,
specifications and techniques to improve system
performance.
Op Amps
AN679: Temperature Sensing Technologies
Covers the most popular temperature sensor technologies
and helps determine the most appropriate sensor for an
application.
AN681: Reading and Using Fast Fourier Transformation
(FFT)
Discusses the use of frequency analysis (FFTs), time
analysis and DC analysis techniques. It emphasizes Analogto-Digital converter applications.
AN684: Single Supply Temperature Sensing with
Thermocouples
Focuses on thermocouple circuit solutions. It builds from
signal conditioning components to complete application
circuits.
AN695: Interfacing Pressure Sensors to Microchips
Analog Peripherals
Shows how to condition a Wheatstone bridge sensor using
simple circuits. A piezoresistive pressure sensor application
is used to illustrate the theory.
AN699: Anti-Aliasing, Analog Filters for Data Acquisition
Systems
A tutorial on active analog filters and their most common
applications.
AN722: Operational Amplifier Topologies and
DC Specifications
Defines op amp DC specifications found in a data sheet. It
shows where these specifications are critical in application
circuits.
AN723: Operational Amplifier AC Specifications and
Applications
Defines op amp AC specifications found in a data sheet. It
shows where these specifications are critical in application
circuits.

Gives simple design procedures for op amp oscillators.
These circuits are used to accurately measure resistive and
capacitive sensors.
AN884: Driving Capacitive Loads With Op Amps
Explains why all op amps tend to have problems driving
large capacitive loads. A simple, one resistor compensation
scheme is given that gives much better performance.
AN951: Amplifying High-Impedance Sensors
Photodiode Example
Shows how to condition the current out of a high-impedance
sensor. A photodiode detector illustrates the theory.
AN990: Analog Sensor Conditioning Circuits An Overview
Gives an overview of the many sensor types, applications
and conditioning circuits.
AN1014: Measuring Small Changes in Capacitive Sensors
This application note shows a switched capacitor circuit that
uses a PIC microcontroller, and minimal external passive
components, to measure small changes in capacitance. The
values are very repeatable under constant environmental
conditions.
AN1016: Detecting Small Capacitive Sensors Using the
MCP6291 and PIC16F690 Devices
The circuit discussed here uses an op amp and a
microcontroller to implement a dual slope integrator and
timer. It gives accurate results, and is appropriate for small
capacitive sensors, such as capacitive humidity sensors.
AN1177: Op Amp Precision Design: DC Errors
This application note covers the essential background
information and design theory needed to design a precision
DC circuit using op amps.
AN1228: Op Amp Precision Design: Random Noise
This application note covers the essential background
information and design theory needed to design low noise,
precision op amp circuits. The focus is on simple, results
oriented methods and approximations useful for circuits with
a low-pass response.
AN1258: Op Amp Precision Design: PCB Layout Techniques
This application note covers Printed Circuit Board (PCB)
effects encountered in high (DC) precision op amp circuits.
It provides techniques for improving the performance,
giving more flexibility in solving a given design problem. It
demonstrates one important factor necessary to convert a
good schematic into a working precision design.
AN1297: Microchips Op Amp SPICE Macro Models
This application note covers the function and use of
Microchips op amp SPICE macro models. It does not explain
how to use the circuit simulator but will give the user a
better understanding how the model behaves and tips on
convergence issues.
21

Programmable Gain Amplifier (PGA)
AN248: Interfacing MCP6S2X PGAs to PIC
Microcontrollers
This application note shows how to program the six channel
MCP6S26 PGA gains, channels and shutdown registers
using the PIC16C505 microcontroller.
AN865: Sensing Light with a Programmable Gain Amplifier
This application notes discusses how Microchips
Programmable Gain Amplifiers (PGAs) can be effectively
used in position photo sensing applications minus the
headaches of amplifier stability.
AN897: Thermistor Temperature Sensing with MCP6SX2
PGAs
Shows how to use a Programmable Gain Amplifier (PGA) to
linearize the response of a thermistor, and to achieve a wider
temperature measurement range.
Temperature Sensing
AN929: Temperature Measurement Circuits for Embedded
Applications
This application note shows how to select a temperature
sensor and conditioning circuit to maximize the
measurement accuracy and simplify the interface to the
microcontroller.
AN981: Interfacing a MCP9700 Analog Temperature
Sensor to a PIC Microcontroller
Analog output silicon temperature sensors offer an easyto-use alternative to traditional temperature sensors, such
as thermistors. The MCP9700 offers many system-level
advantages, including the integration of the temperature
sensor and signal-conditioning circuitry on a single chip.
Analog output sensors are especially suited for embedded
systems due to their linear output. This application note
will discuss system integration, firmware implementation
and PCB layout techniques for using the MCP9700 in an
embedded system.
AN988: Interfacing a MCP9800 I2C Digital Temperature
Sensor to a PIC Microcontroller
This application note will discuss system integration,
firmware implementation and PCB layout techniques for
using the MCP9800 in an embedded system.
AN1001: IC Temperature Sensor Accuracy Compensation
with a PIC Microcontroller
This application note derives an equation that describes
the sensors typical non-linear characteristics, which can be
used to compensate for the sensors accuracy error over the
specified operating temperature range.
22
AN1154: Precision RTD Instrumentation for Temperature

Sensing
Precision RTD (Resistive Temperature Detector)
instrumentation is key for high performance thermal
management applications. This application note shows
how to use a high resolution Delta-Sigma Analog-toDigital converter, and two resistors to measure RTD
resistance ratiometrically. A 0.1C accuracy and 0.01C
measurement resolution can be achieved across the RTD
temperature range of -200C to +800C with a single point
calibration.
AN1306: Thermocouple Circuit Using MCP6V01 and
PIC18F2550
This application note shows how to use a difference
amplifier system to measure electromotive force (EMF)
voltage at the cold junction of thermocouple in order to
accurately measure temperature at the hot junction. This
can be done by using the MCP6V01 auto-zeroed op amp
because of its extremely low input offset voltage (VOS)
and very high common mode rejection ratio (CMRR).
The microcontroller PIC18F2550 used in this circuit
has internal comparator voltage reference (CVREF). This
solution minimizes cost by using resources internal to the
PIC18F2550 to achieve reasonable resolution without an
external ADC.
LINEAR
LINEAR Op Amps
Device
MCP6031/2/3/4
# per
Package
GBWP
(kHz)
Typ.
IQ
(A/amp.)
Typ.
VOS
(V)
Max.
Supply
Voltage
(V)
Temperature
Range (C)
Railto-Rail
I/O
1,2,1,4
10
150
1.8 to 5.5
-40 to +125
I/O
MCP6041/2/3/4
1,2,1,4
14
3,000
1.4 to 6.0
-40 to +85,
-40 to +125
MCP6141/2/3/4
1,2,1,4
100
3,000
1.4 to 6.0
-40 to +85,
-40 to +125
Features
Packages
Featured Demo Board
Op Amp Category
Low Power Mode on MCP6033
SOIC, MSOP, TSSOP, DFN,

SOT-23
MCP6031DM-PCTL,
SOIC8EV, SOIC14EV
Low Offset, Low Power
I/O
PDIP, SOIC, MSOP, TSSOP,

SOT-23
SOIC8EV, SOIC14EV
General Purpose, Low Power
I/O
GMIN = 10, Low Power Mode on

MCP6143

SOT-23
SOIC8EV, SOIC14EV
General Purpose, Low Power
SOIC8EV, SOIC14EV
Low Offset
MCP606/7/8/9
1,2,1,4
155
25
250
2.5 to 6.0
-40 to +85
PDIP, SOIC, TSSOP, DFN,

SOT-23
MCP616/7/8/9
1,2,1,4
190
25
150
2.3 to 5.5
-40 to +85
PDIP, SOIC, TSSOP
SOIC8EV, SOIC14EV
Low Offset
VSUPEV2, SOIC8EV,
SOIC14EV
General Purpose
MCP6231/1R/1U/2/4
MCP6051/2/4
MCP6241/1R/1U/2/4
MCP6061/2/4
MCP6001/1R/1U/2/4
MCP6071/2/4
MCP6271/1R/2/3/4/5
MCP601/1R/2/3/4
MCP6286
MCP6281/1R/2/3/4/5
MCP6021/1R/2/3/4
1,1,1,2,4
300
30
5,000
1.8 to 6.0
-40 to +125
I/O
PDIP, SOIC, MSOP, TSSOP, DFN,

SOT-23, SC-70
1,2,4
385
45
150
1.8 to 6.0
-40 to +125
I/O
SOIC, TSSOP, TDFN
SOIC8EV, SOIC14EV
Low Offset
VSUPEV2, SOIC8EV,
SOIC14EV
General Purpose
1,1,1,2,4
550
70
5,000
1.8 to 5.5
-40 to +125
I/O
PDIP, SOIC, MSOP, TSSOP, DFN,

SOT-23, SC-70
1,2,4
730
90
150
1.8 to 6.0
-40 to +125
I/O
SOIC, TSSOP, TDFN
SOIC8EV, SOIC14EV
Low Offset
I/O

SOT-23, SC-70
MCP6SX2DM-PICTLPD,
SOIC8EV, SOIC14EV
General Purpose
I/O
SOIC, TSSOP, TDFN
SOIC8EV, SOIC14EV
Low Offset
I/O
Low Power Mode on MCP6273,

Cascaded Gain with MCP6275

SOT-23
MCP6XXXDM-FLTR,
SOIC8EV, SOIC14EV
General Purpose
1,1,1,2,4
1,000
170
4,500
1.8 to 6.0
-40 to +85,
-40 to +125
1,2,4
1,200
170
150
1.8 to 6.0
-40 to +125
1,1,2,1,4,2
2,000
240
3,000
2.0 to 6.0
-40 to +125
1,1,2,1,4
2,800
325
2,000
2.7 to 6.0
-40 to +85,
-40 to +125
PDIP, SOIC, TSSOP, SOT-23
SOIC8EV, SOIC14EV
General Purpose
3,500
720
1,500
2.2 to 5.5
-40 to +125
Low Noise
SOT-23
VSUPEV2
Low Noise
1,1,2,1,4,2
5,000
570
3,000
2.2 to 6.0
-40 to +125
I/O


SOT-23
VSUPEV2, SOIC8EV,
SOIC14EV
General Purpose
1,1,2,1,4
10,000
1,350
500, 250
2.5 to 5.5
-40 to +85,
-40 to +125
I/O

SOT-23
MCP6XXXEV-AMP1,
SOIC8EV, SOIC14EV
Low Offset

SOT-23
PIC16F690DM-PCTLHS,
SOIC8EV, SOIC14EV
General Purpose
1,1,2,1,4,2
10,000
1,300
3,000
2.4 to 6.0
-40 to +125
I/O

1,2,2
20,000
3,600
200
2.5 to 5.5
-40 to +125
mCal (offset correction, low power mode)
SOIC, MSOP, DFN
MCP651EV-VOS
High Speed, High Output Drive,

Low Offset
1,2,1,2
24,000
3,600
8,000
2.5 to 5.5
-40 to +125
Low Power Mode on MCP633/5
SOIC, MSOP, DFN
MCP651EV-VOS
High Speed, High Output Drive
1,2,2
50,000
9,000
200
2.5 to 5.5
-40 to +125
mCal (offset correction, low power mode)
SOIC, MSOP, DFN
MCP651EV-VOS
High Speed, High Output Drive,

Low Offset
1,2,1,2
60,000
9,000
8,000
2.5 to 5.5
-40 to +125
Low Power Mode on MCP663/5
SOIC, MSOP, DFN
MCP661DM-LD
High Speed, High Output Drive
# per
Package
GBWP
(kHz)
Typ.
IQ
(A/amp.)
Typ.
VOS
(V)
Max.
Supply
Voltage
(V)
Temperature
Range (C)
Railto-Rail
I/O
MCP6V01/2/3
1,2,1
1,300
400
1.8 to 5.5
-40 to +125
I/O
Low Power Mode on MCP6V03
SOIC, DFN, TDFN
MCP6V01DM-VOS,
MCP6V01RD-TCPL
Auto-zeroed
MCP6V06/7/8
1,2,1
1,300
400
1.8 to 5.5
-40 to +125
I/O
Low Power Mode on MCP6V08
SOIC, DFN, TDFN
MCP6V01DM-VOS,
MCP6V01RD-TCPL
Auto-zeroed
MCP6291/1R/2/3/4/5
MCP621
MCP631/2/3/5
MCP651/2/5
MCP661/2/3/5
LINEAR Op Amps Auto-Zero

Device
Features
Packages
Featured Demo Board
Op Amp Category
23
LINEAR Comparators
# per
Package
VREF (V)
Typical
Propagation
Delay (s)
IQ Typical
(A)
Vos Max
(mV)
Operating
Voltage (V)
Temperature
Range (C)
MCP6541
1.6 to 5.5
-40 to +125
Push-Pull, Rail-to-Rail Input/Output
MCP6542
1.6 to 5.5
-40 to +125
8-pin PDIP, 8-pin SOIC, 8-pin MSOP
MCP6543
1.6 to 5.5
-40 to +125
Push-Pull, Rail-to-Rail Input/Output, Chip Select
MCP6544
1.6 to 5.5
-40 to +125
14-pin PDIP, 14-pin SOIC, 14-pin TSSOP
MCP6546
1.6 to 5.5
-40 to +125
Open-drain, 9V, Rail-to-Rail Input/Output
5-pin SOT-23(S,R,U), 5-pin SC-70(S,U),

MCP6547
1.6 to 5.5
-40 to +125
MCP6548
1.6 to 5.5
-40 to +125
Open-drain, 9V, Rail-to-Rail Input/Output, Chip Select
MCP6549
1.6 to 5.5
-40 to +125
14-pin PDIP, 14-pin SOIC, 14-pin TSSOP
MCP6561
0.047
100
10
1.8 to 5.5
-40 to +125
5-pin SOT-23(S,R,U), 5-pin SC-70(S)
MCP6562
0.047
100
10
1.8 to 5.5
-40 to +125
8-pin SOIC, 8-pin MSOP
MCP6564
0.047
100
10
1.8 to 5.5
-40 to +125
14-pin SOIC, 14-pin TSSOP
MCP6566
0.047
100
10
1.8 to 5.5
-40 to +125
Open-Drain, Rail-to-Rail Input/Output
5-pin SOT-23(S,R,U), 5-pin SC-70(S)
MCP6567
0.047
100
10
1.8 to 5.5
-40 to +125
8-pin SOIC, 8-pin MSOP
MCP6569
0.047
100
10
1.8 to 5.5
-40 to +125
14-pin SOIC, 14-pin TSSOP
Device
Features
Packages
5-pin SOT-23(S,R,U), 5-pin SC-70(S,U),
Legend: S = Standard Pinout; R = Reverse Pinout; U = Alternative Pinout
LINEAR Programmable Gain Amplifiers (PGA)

Device
MCP6S21/2/6/8
MCP6S912,3
Channels
-3 dB BW (MHz) Typ.
IQ (A) Max.
VOS (V) Max.
Operating Voltage (V)
Temperature Range (C)
1, 2, 6, 8
2 to 12
1.1
275
2.5 to 5.5
-40 to +85
SPI, 8 Gain Steps, Software Shutdown
Features
PDIP, SOIC, MSOP, TSSOP
Packages
1, 2, 2
1 to 18
1.0
4000
2.5 to 5.5
-40 to +125
SPI, 8 Gain Steps, Software Shutdown, VREF
PDIP, SOIC, MSOP
MIXED SIGNAL
MIXED SIGNAL Delta-Sigma A/D Converters
Resolution
(bits)
Max.Sample
Rate
(samples/sec)
# of Input
Channels
Interface
Supply
Voltage (V)
Typical
Supply
Current (A)
Typical INL
(ppm)
Temperature
Range (C)
MCP3421
18
3.75
1 Diff
I2C
2.7 to 5.5
145 (continuous)
39 (one shot)
10
-40 to +85
PGA: 1, 2, 4 or 8
Internal voltage reference
SOT-23-6
MCP3421EV
MCP3422
18
3.75
2 Diff
IC
2.7 to 5.5
145
10
-40 to +85
PGA: 1, 2, 4, or 8
SOIC-8, MSOP-8, DFN-8
MCP3422EV, MCP3421DM-BFG
MCP3423
18
3.75
2 Diff
IC
2.7 to 5.5
145
10
-40 to +85
PGA: 1, 2, 4, or 8
MSOP-10, DFN-10
MCP3423EV
MCP3424
18
3.75
4 Diff
IC
2.7 to 5.5
145
10
-40 to +85
PGA: 1, 2, 4, or 8
SOIC-14, TSSOP-14
MCP3424EV
MCP3425
16
15
1 Diff
IC
2.7 to 5.5
155
10
-40 to +85
PGA: 1, 2, 4, or 8
SOT-23-6
MCP3425EV, MCP3421DM-BFG
MCP3426
16
15
2 Diff
IC
2.7 to 5.5
145
10
-40 to +85
PGA: 1, 2, 4, or 8
SOIC-8, MSOP-8, DFN-8
MCP3427
16
15
2 Diff
IC
2.7 to 5.5
145
10
-40 to +85
PGA: 1, 2, 4, or 8
MSOP-10, DFN-10
MCP3428
16
15
4 Diff
IC
2.7 to 5.5
145
10
-40 to +85
PGA: 1, 2, 4, or 8
SOIC-14, TSSOP-14
Device
Features
Packages
Featured Demo Board
24
MIXED SIGNAL Delta-Sigma A/D Converters (Continued)

Resolution
(bits)
Max.Sample
Rate
(samples/sec)
# of Input
Channels
Interface
Supply
Voltage (V)
Typical
Supply
Current (A)
Typical INL
(ppm)
Temperature
Range (C)
MCP3550-50
22
13
1 Diff
SPI
2.7 to 5.5
120
-40 to +85
50 Hz noise rejection > 120 dB
SOIC-8, MSOP-8
MCP3551DM-PCTL
MCP3550-60
22
15
1 Diff
SPI
2.7 to 5.5
140
-40 to +85
60 Hz noise rejection > 120 dB
SOIC-8, MSOP-8
MCP3551DM-PCTL
MCP3551
22
14
1 Diff
SPI
2.7 to 5.5
120
-40 to +85
Simultaneous 50/60 Hz rejection
SOIC-8, MSOP-8
MCP3551DM-PCTL
MCP3553
20
60
1 Diff
SPI
2.7 to 5.5
140
-40 to +85
SOIC-8, MSOP-8
MCP3551DM-PCTL
MCP3901
16
64000
2 Diff
SPI
4.5 to 5.5
2050
15
-40 to +85
Two ADC Cores, 16/24 bits, High Sample

Speed (64 ksps), PGA: 1, 2, 4, 8, 16 or 32
SSOP-20, QFN-20
MCP3901EV-MCU16
Device
Features
Packages
Featured Demo Board
MIXED SIGNAL Successive Approximation Register (SAR) A/D Converters

Resolution
(bits)
Max.Sample
Rate
(samples/sec)
# of Input
Channels
Input Type
Interface
Input Voltage
Range (V)
Max. Supply
Current (A)
MCP3001
10
200
Single-ended
SPI
2.7 to 5.5
500
1 LSB
-40 to +85
PDIP-8, SOIC-8, MSOP-8, TSSOP-8
MCP3002
10
200
Single-ended
SPI
2.7 to 5.5
650
1 LSB
-40 to +85
MCP3004
10
200
Single-ended
SPI
2.7 to 5.5
550
1 LSB
-40 to +85
PDIP-14, SOIC-14, TSSOP-14
MCP3008
10
200
Single-ended
SPI
2.7 to 5.5
550
1 LSB
-40 to +85
PDIP-16, SOIC-16
MCP3021
10
22
Single-ended
I2C
2.7 to 5.5
250
1 LSB
-40 to +125
SOT-23A-5
MCP3221DM-PCTL, MXSIGDM
MCP3221
12
22
Single-ended
I2C
2.7 to 5.5
250
2 LSB
-40 to +125
SOT-23A-5
MCP3221DM-PCTL, MXSIGDM
MCP3201
12
100
Single-ended
SPI
2.7 to 5.5
400
1 LSB
-40 to +85
DV3201A, DVMCPA, MXSIGDM
MCP3202
12
100
Single-ended
SPI
2.7 to 5.5
550
1 LSB
-40 to +85
MCP3204
12
100
Single-ended
SPI
2.7 to 5.5
400
1 LSB
-40 to +85
MCP3208
12
100
Single-ended
SPI
2.7 to 5.5
400
1 LSB
-40 to +85
PDIP-16, SOIC-16
MCP3301
13
100
Differential
SPI
2.7 to 5.5
450
1 LSB
-40 to +85
MCP3302
13
100
Differential
SPI
2.7 to 5.5
450
1 LSB
-40 to +85
MCP3304
13
100
Differential
SPI
2.7 to 5.5
450
1 LSB
-40 to +85
PDIP-16, SOIC-16
Part #
Temperature
Range (C)
Max. INL
Packages
Featured Demo Board
MIXED SIGNAL D/A Converters

Resolution
(Bits)
DACs per
Package
Interface
VREF
Output Settling
Time (s)
DNL
(LSB)
Typical
Standby
Current (A)
Typical
Operating
Current (A)
Temperature Range
(C)
MCP4725
12
I2C
VDD
0.75
210
-40 to +125
MCP4728
12
I2C
Int/ VDD
0.75
0.04
800
MCP4821
12
SPI
4.5
0.3
330
MCP4822
12
SPI
4.5
0.3
415
MCP4921
12
SPI
Ext
4.5
0.75
MCP4922
12
SPI
Ext
4.5
0.75
TC1320
SMbus/ I2C
Ext
10
0.8
TC1321
10
SMbus/ I2C
Ext
10
0.1
Part #
Packages
Featured Demo Board
SOT-23-6
MCP4725DM-PTPLS,
MCP4725EV
-40 to +125
MSOP-10
MCP4728EV
-40 to +125
PDIP-8, SOIC-8, MSOP-8
-40 to +125
175
-40 to +125
350
-40 to +125
0.1
350
-40 to +85
SOIC-8, MSOP-8
350
-40 to +85
SOIC-8, MSOP-8
25
MIXED SIGNAL Digital Potentiometers

Device
# of
Taps
# per
Package
Interface
VDD Operating
Range(1)
Volatile/
Non-Volatile
Resistance (ohms)
INL (Max.)
DNL (Max.)
Temperature
Range (C)
Packages
Featured Demo Board
MCP4011
64
U/D
1.8V to 5.5V
Volatile
2.1K, 5K, 10K, 50K
0.5 LSb
0.5 LSb
-40 to +125
SOIC-8
MCP402XEV, MCP4XXXDM-DB
MCP4012
64
U/D
1.8V to 5.5V
Volatile
2.1K, 5K, 10K, 50K
0.5 LSb
0.5 LSb
-40 to +125
SOT-23-6
MCP402XEV, SC70EV
MCP4013
64
U/D
1.8V to 5.5V
Volatile
2.1K, 5K, 10K, 50K
0.5 LSb
0.5 LSb
-40 to +125
SOT-23-6
MCP402XEV, SC70EV
MCP4014
64
U/D
1.8V to 5.5V
Volatile
2.1K, 5K, 10K, 50K
0.5 LSb
0.5 LSb
-40 to +125
SOT-23-5
MCP402XEV, SC70EV
MCP4017
128
I2C
1.8V to 5.5V
Volatile
5K, 10K, 50K, 100K
0.5 LSb
0.25 LSb
-40 to +125
SC-70-6
SC70EV
MCP4018
128
I2C
1.8V to 5.5V
Volatile
5K, 10K, 50K, 100K
0.5 LSb
0.25 LSb
-40 to +125
SC-70-6
SC70EV
MCP4019
128
I2C
1.8V to 5.5V
Volatile
5K, 10K, 50K, 100K
0.5 LSb
0.25 LSb
-40 to +125
SC-70-5
SC70EV
MCP40D17
128
I2C
1.8V to 5.5V
Volatile
5K, 10K, 50K, 100K
0.5 LSb
0.25 LSb
-40 to +125
SC-70-6
SC70EV
SC70EV
MCP40D18
128
I C
1.8V to 5.5V
Volatile
5K, 10K, 50K, 100K
0.5 LSb
0.25 LSb
-40 to +125
SC-70-6
MCP40D19
128
I2C
1.8V to 5.5V
Volatile
5K, 10K, 50K, 100K
0.5 LSb
0.25 LSb
-40 to +125
SC-70-5
SC70EV
MCP4021
64
U/D
2.7V to 5.5V
Non-Volatile
2.1K, 5K, 10K, 50K
0.5 LSb
0.5 LSb
-40 to +125
SOIC-8
MCP402XEV, MCP4XXXDM-DB
MCP4022
64
U/D
2.7V to 5.5V
Non-Volatile
2.1K, 5K, 10K, 50K
0.5 LSb
0.5 LSb
-40 to +125
SOT-23-6
MCP402XEV, SC70EV
MCP4023
64
U/D
2.7V to 5.5V
Non-Volatile
2.1K, 5K, 10K, 50K
0.5 LSb
0.5 LSb
-40 to +125
SOT-23-6
MCP402XEV, SC70EV
MCP4024
64
U/D
2.7V to 5.5V
Non-Volatile
2.1K, 5K, 10K, 50K
0.5 LSb
0.5 LSb
-40 to +125
SOT-23-5
MCP402XEV, SC70EV
MCP41010
256
SPI
2.7V to 5.5V
Volatile
10K
1 LSb
1 LSb
-40 to +85
PDIP-8, SOIC-8
MCP4XXXDM-DB
MCP41050
256
SPI
2.7V to 5.5V
Volatile
50K
1 LSb
1 LSb
-40 to +85
PDIP-8, SOIC-8
MCP4XXXDM-DB
MCP41100
256
SPI
2.7V to 5.5V
Volatile
100K
1 LSb
1 LSb
-40 to +85
PDIP-8, SOIC-8
MCP4XXXDM-DB
MCP42010
256
SPI
2.7V to 5.5V
Volatile
10K
1 LSb
1 LSb
-40 to +85
MCP4XXXDM-DB
MCP42050
256
SPI
2.7V to 5.5V
Volatile
50K
1 LSb
1 LSb
-40 to +85
MCP4XXXDM-DB
MCP42100
256
SPI
2.7V to 5.5V
Volatile
100K
1 LSb
1 LSb
-40 to +85
MCP4XXXDM-DB
MCP4131
129
SPI
1.8V to 5.5V
Volatile
5K, 10K, 50K, 100K
0.5 LSb
0.25 LSb
-40 to +125
PDIP-8, SOIC-8, MSOP-8, DFN-8
MCP42XXDM-PTPLS
MCP4132
129
SPI
1.8V to 5.5V
Volatile
5K, 10K, 50K, 100K
0.5 LSb
0.25 LSb
-40 to +125
MCP42XXDM-PTPLS
MCP4141
129
SPI
2.7V to 5.5V
Non-Volatile
5K, 10K, 50K, 100K
0.5 LSb
0.25 LSb
-40 to +125
MCP42XXDM-PTPLS
MCP4142
129
SPI
2.7V to 5.5V
Non-Volatile
5K, 10K, 50K, 100K
0.5 LSb
0.25 LSb
-40 to +125
MCP42XXDM-PTPLS
MCP42XXDM-PTPLS
MCP4151
257
SPI
1.8V to 5.5V
Volatile
5K, 10K, 50K, 100K
1 LSb
0.5 LSb
-40 to +125
PDIP-8, SOIC-8,
MSOP-8, DFN-8
MCP4152
257
SPI
1.8V to 5.5V
Volatile
5K, 10K, 50K, 100K
1 LSb
0.5 LSb
-40 to +125
PDIP-8, SOIC-8,
MSOP-8, DFN-8
MCP42XXDM-PTPLS
MCP42XXDM-PTPLS
MCP4161
257
SPI
2.7V to 5.5V
Non-Volatile
5K, 10K, 50K, 100K
1 LSb
0.5 LSb
-40 to +125
PDIP-8, SOIC-8,
MSOP-8, DFN-8
MCP4162
257
SPI
2.7V to 5.5V
Non-Volatile
5K, 10K, 50K, 100K
1 LSb
0.5 LSb
-40 to +125
PDIP-8, SOIC-8,
MSOP-8, DFN-8
MCP42XXDM-PTPLS
MCP4231
129
SPI
1.8V to 5.5V
Volatile
5K, 10K, 50K, 100K
0.5 LSb
0.25 LSb
-40 to +125
PDIP-14, SOIC-14, TSSOP-14, QFN-16
MCP4XXXDM-DB, MCP42XXDM-PTPLS
MCP4232
129
SPI
1.8V to 5.5V
Volatile
5K, 10K, 50K, 100K
0.5 LSb
0.25 LSb
-40 to +125
MSOP-10, DFN-10
MCP42XXDM-PTPLS
MCP4241
129
SPI
2.7V to 5.5V
Non-Volatile
5K, 10K, 50K, 100K
0.5 LSb
0.25 LSb
-40 to +125
MCP4242
129
SPI
2.7V to 5.5V
Non-Volatile
5K, 10K, 50K, 100K
0.5 LSb
0.25 LSb
-40 to +125
MSOP-10, DFN-10
MCP42XXDM-PTPLS
MCP4251
257
SPI
1.8V to 5.5V
Volatile
5K, 10K, 50K, 100K
1 LSb
0.5 LSb
-40 to +125
MCP4252
257
SPI
1.8V to 5.5V
Volatile
5K, 10K, 50K, 100K
1 LSb
0.5 LSb
-40 to +125
MSOP-10, DFN-10
MCP42XXDM-PTPLS
MCP4261
257
SPI
2.7V to 5.5V
Non-Volatile
5K, 10K, 50K, 100K
1 LSb
0.5 LSb
-40 to +125
MCP4262
257
SPI
2.7V to 5.5V
Non-Volatile
5K, 10K, 50K, 100K
1 LSb
0.5 LSb
-40 to +125
MSOP-10, DFN-10
MCP42XXDM-PTPLS
MCP4351
257
SPI
1.8V to 5.5V
Volatile
5K, 10K, 50K, 100K
1.0 LSb
0.5 LSb
-40 to +125
TSSOP-20, QFN-20
TSSOP20EV
MCP4352
257
SPI
1.8V to 5.5V
Volatile
5K, 10K, 50K, 100K
1.0 LSb
0.5 LSb
-40 to +125
TSSOP-14
TSSOP20EV
Note 1: Analog characteristics may be tested at different voltage ranges.
26
MIXED SIGNAL Digital Potentiometers (Continued)

Device
# of
Taps
# per
Package
Interface
VDD Operating
Range(1)
Volatile/
Non-Volatile
Resistance (ohms)
INL (Max.)
DNL (Max.)
Temperature
Range (C)
MCP4361
257
SPI
2.7V to 5.5V
Non-Volatile
5K, 10K, 50K, 100K
1.0 LSb
0.5 LSb
-40 to +125
TSSOP-20, QFN-20
TSSOP20EV
MCP4362
257
SPI
2.7V to 5.5V
Non-Volatile
5K, 10K, 50K, 100K
1.0 LSb
0.5 LSb
-40 to +125
TSSOP-14
TSSOP20EV
MCP46XXDM-PTPLS
Packages
Featured Demo Board
MCP4531
129
I2C
1.8V to 5.5V
Volatile
5K, 10K, 50K, 100K
0.5 LSb
0.25 LSb
-40 to +125
MSOP-8, DFN-8
MCP4532
129
I2C
1.8V to 5.5V
Volatile
5K, 10K, 50K, 100K
0.5 LSb
0.25 LSb
-40 to +125
MSOP-8, DFN-8
MCP46XXDM-PTPLS
MCP4541
129
I2C
2.7V to 5.5V
Non-Volatile
5K, 10K, 50K, 100K
0.5 LSb
0.25 LSb
-40 to +125
MSOP-8, DFN-8
MCP46XXDM-PTPLS
MCP4542
29
I2C
2.7V to 5.5V
Non-Volatile
5K, 10K, 50K, 100K
0.5 LSb
0.25 LSb
-40 to +125
MSOP-8, DFN-8
MCP46XXDM-PTPLS
MCP4551
257
I2C
1.8V to 5.5V
Volatile
5K, 10K, 50K, 100K
1 LSb
0.5 LSb
-40 to +125
MSOP-8, DFN-8
MCP46XXDM-PTPLS
MCP4552
257
I C
1.8V to 5.5V
Volatile
5K, 10K, 50K, 100K
1 LSb
0.5 LSb
-40 to +125
MSOP-8, DFN-8
MCP46XXDM-PTPLS
MCP4561
257
I2C
2.7V to 5.5V
Non-Volatile
5K, 10K, 50K, 100K
1 LSb
0.5 LSb
-40 to +125
MSOP-8, DFN-8
MCP46XXDM-PTPLS
MCP4562
257
I2C
2.7V to 5.5V
Non-Volatile
5K, 10K, 50K, 100K
1 LSb
0.5 LSb
-40 to +125
MSOP-8, DFN-8
MCP46XXDM-PTPLS
MCP4631
129
I2C
1.8V to 5.5V
Volatile
5K, 10K, 50K, 100K
0.5 LSb
0.25 LSb
-40 to +125
TSSOP-14, QFN-16
MCP4632
129
I2C
1.8V to 5.5V
Volatile
5K, 10K, 50K, 100K
0.5 LSb
0.25 LSb
-40 to +125
MSOP-10, DFN-10
MCP46XXDM-PTPLS
MCP4641
129
I2C
2.7V to 5.5V
Non-Volatile
5K, 10K, 50K, 100K
0.5 LSb
0.25 LSb
-40 to +125
TSSOP-14, QFN-16
MCP4642
129
I2C
2.7V to 5.5V
Non-Volatile
5K, 10K, 50K, 100K
0.5 LSb
0.25 LSb
-40 to +125
MSOP-10, DFN-10
MCP46XXDM-PTPLS
MCP4651
257
I2C
1.8V to 5.5V
Volatile
5K, 10K, 50K, 100K
1 LSb
0.5 LSb
-40 to +125
TSSOP-14, QFN-16
MCP4652
257
I2C
1.8V to 5.5V
Volatile
5K, 10K, 50K, 100K
1 LSb
0.5 LSb
-40 to +125
MSOP-10, DFN-10
MCP46XXDM-PTPLS
MCP4661
257
I2C
2.7V to 5.5V
Non-Volatile
5K, 10K, 50K, 100K
1 LSb
0.5 LSb
-40 to +125
TSSOP-14, QFN-16
MCP4662
257
I2C
2.7V to 5.5V
Non-Volatile
5K, 10K, 50K, 100K
1 LSb
0.5 LSb
-40 to +125
MSOP-10, DFN-10
MCP46XXDM-PTPLS
Note 1: Analog characteristics may be tested at different voltage ranges.
THERMAL MANAGEMENT
THERMAL MANAGEMENT PRODUCTS Temperature Sensors
Part #
Typical
Accuracy
(C)
Maximum
Accuracy
@ 25C (C)
Maximum
Temperature
Range (C)
Vcc Range
(V)
Maximum Supply
Current (A)
Resolution (bits)
Packages
Featured Demo Board
Serial Output Temperature Sensors

MCP9800
0.5
-55 to +125
+2.7 to +5.5
400
9-12
SOT-23-5
MCP9800DM-TS1
MCP9801
0.5
-55 to +125
+2.7 to +5.5
400
9-12
SOIC-8 150 mil, MSOP-8
MCP9800DM-TS1
MCP9802
0.5
-55 to +125
+2.7 to +5.5
400
9-12
SOT-23-5
MCP9800DM-TS1
MCP9803
0.5
-55 to +125
+2.7 to +5.5
400
9-12
MCP9800DM-TS1
MCP9804
0.25
-40 to +125
+2.7 to +5.5
400
12-bits
MSOP-8, DFN-8
TMPSNSRD-RTD2, TMPSNSRD-TCPL1
MCP9805
-40 to +125
3.0 to 3.6
500
10
TSSOP-8, DFN-8
MCP98242
-40 to +125
3.0 to 3.6
500
10
TSSOP-8, DFN-8, TDFN-8, UDFN-8
MCP98243
0.5
-40 to +125
3.0 to 3.6
500
11
TSSOP-8, DFN-8, TDFN-8, UDFN-8
TC72
0.5
-55 to +125
+2.7 to +5.5
400
10
MSOP-8, DFN-8
TC72DM-PICTL
TC74
0.5
-40 to +125
+2.7 to +5.5
350
SOT-23-5, TO-220-5
TC74DEMO
TC77
0.5
-55 to +125
+2.7 to +5.5
400
12
SOIC-8 150 mil, SOT-23-5
TC77DM-PICTL
TCN75
0.5
-55 to +125
+2.7 to +5.5
1000
TCN75A
0.5
-40 to +125
+2.7 to +5.5
400
9-12
27
THERMAL MANAGEMENT PRODUCTS Temperature Sensors

Part #
Typical
Accuracy
(C)
Maximum
Accuracy
@ 25C (C)
Maximum
Temperature
Range (C)
Vcc Range
(V)
Maximum Supply
Current (A)
Resolution (bits)
Packages
Featured Demo Board
Logic Output Temperature Sensors

MCP9509
0.5
NA
-40 to +125
2.7 to 5.5
50
SOT-23-5
MCP9510
0.5
NA
-40 to +125
2.7 to 5.5
80
SOT-23-6
TC620
-55 to 125
4.5 to 18
400
PDIP-8, SOIC-8 150 mil
TC621
-55 to 125
4.5 to 18
400
TC622
-40 to +125
4.5 to 18
600
PDIP-8, SOIC-8 150 mil, TO-220-5
TC623
-40 to +125
2.7 to 4.5
250
TC624
-40 to +125
2.7 to 4.5
300
TC6501
0.5
-55 to 135
2.7 to 5.5
40
SOT-23-5
TC6502
0.5
-55 to 135
2.7 to 5.5
40
SOT-23-5
TC6503
0.5
-55 to 135
2.7 to 5.5
40
SOT-23-5
TC6504
0.5
-55 to 135
2.7 to 5.5
40
SOT-23-5
Voltage Output Temperature Sensors

MCP9700
-40 to +150
2.3 to 5.5
SC-70-5, SOT-23-3, TO-92-3
MCP9700DM-PCTL
MCP9700A
-40 to +150
2.3 to 5.5
SC-70-5, SOT-23-3, TO-92-3
MCP9700DM-PCTL
MCP9701
-40 to +125
+3.1 to +5.5
SC-70-5, SOT-23-3, TO-92-3
MCP9700DM-PCTL
MCP9701A
-40 to +125
+3.1 to +5.5
SC-70-5, SOT-23-3, TO-92-3
MCP9700DM-PCTL
TC1046
0.5
-40 to +125
2.7 to 4.4
60
SOT-23-3
TC1047
0.5
-40 to +125
2.7 to 4.4
60
SOT-23-3
TC1047ADM-PICTL
TC1047A
0.5
-40 to +125
+2.5 to +5.5
60
SOT-23-3
TC1047ADM-PICTL
TC1047A
0.5
-40 to +125
+2.5 to +5.5
60
SOT-23B-3
POWER MANAGEMENT
POWER MANAGEMENT Voltage References
Part #
Vcc Range (V)
Output Voltage (V)
Max. Load
Current (mA)
Initial Accuracy
(max.%)
Temperature
Coefficient (ppm/C)
Maximum Supply
Current (A @ 25C)
Packages
MCP1525
2.7 to 5.5
2.5
50
100
SOT-23B-3, TO-92-3
MCP1541
4.3 to 5.5
4.096
50
100
SOT-23B-3, TO-92-3
28
Stand-Alone Analog and Interface Portfolio

Thermal
Management
Power
Management
Linear
Mixed-Signal
Temperature
Sensors
LDO & Switching

Regulators
Op Amps
Fan Speed
Controllers/
Fan Fault
Detectors
Charge Pump
DC/DC Converters
Programmable
Gain
Amplifiers
Digital
Potentiometers
Power MOSFET
Drivers
Comparators
D/A Converters
PWM Controllers
System Supervisors
Voltage Detectors
Voltage References
Li-Ion/Li-Polymer
Battery Chargers
A/D Converter
Families
Safety & Security

Photoelectric
Smoke Detectors
V/F and F/V

Converters
Energy
Measurement
ICs
Interface
CAN Peripherals
Infrared
Peripherals
LIN Transceivers
Serial Peripherals
Ethernet Controllers
USB Peripheral
Ionization Smoke
Detectors
Ionization Smoke
Detector Front Ends
Piezoelectric
Horn Drivers
Analog and Interface Attributes

Robustness
MOSFET Drivers lead the industry in latch-up
immunity/stability
High performance LIN and CAN transceivers
Low Power/Low Voltage
Op Amp family with the lowest power for a given gain
bandwidth
600 nA/1.4V/14 kHz bandwidth op amps
1.8V charge pumps and comparators
1.6 A LDOs
Low power ADCs with one-shot conversion
Integration
One of the first to market with integrated LDO with
Reset and Fan Controller with temperature sensor
PGA integrates MUX, resistive ladder, gain switches,
high-performance amplifier, SPI interface
Industrys first 12-bit quad DAC with non-volatile EEPROM
Delta-Sigma ADCs feature on-board PGA and voltage
reference
Highly integrated charging solutions for Li-ion and
LiFePO4 batteries
Space Savings
Resets and LDOs in SC70 package, A/D and D/A
converters in SOT-23 package
CAN and IrDA Standard protocol stack embedded in an
18-pin package
Accuracy
Low input offset voltages
High gains
Innovation
Low pin-count embedded IrDA Standard stack, FanSense
technology
Select Mode operation
Industrys first op amp featuring on-demand calibration via
mCal technology
Digital potentiometers feature WiperLock technology to
secure EEPROM
For more information, visit the Microchip web site at:
www.microchip.com
29
Support
Training
Microchip is committed to supporting its customers

in developing products faster and more efficiently. We
maintain a worldwide network of field applications
engineers and technical support ready to provide product
and system assistance. In addition, the following service
areas are available at www.microchip.com:
Support link provides a way to get questions
answered fast: http://support.microchip.com
Sample link offers evaluation samples of any
Microchip device: http://sample.microchip.com
Forum link provides access to knowledge base and
peer help: http://forum.microchip.com
Buy link provides locations of Microchip Sales Channel
Partners: www.microchip.com/sales
If additional training interests you, then Microchip can

help. We continue to expand our technical training options,
offering a growing list of courses and in-depth curriculum
locally, as well as significant online resources whenever
you want to use them.
Regional Training Centers: www.microchip.com/rtc
MASTERs Conferences: www.microchip.com/masters
Worldwide Seminars: www.microchip.com/seminars
eLearning: www.microchip.com/webseminars
Resources from our Distribution and Third Party Partners
www.microchip.com/training
Sales Office Listing

AMERICAS
Atlanta
Tel: 678-957-9614
Boston
Tel: 774-760-0087
Chicago
Tel: 630-285-0071
Cleveland
Tel: 216-447-0464
Dallas
Tel: 972-818-7423
Detroit
Tel: 248-538-2250
Kokomo
Tel: 765-864-8360
Los Angeles
Tel: 949-462-9523
Santa Clara
Tel: 408-961-6444
Toronto
Mississauga, Ontario
Tel: 905-673-0699
EUROPE
Austria - Wels
Tel: 43-7242-2244-39
Denmark - Copenhagen
Tel: 45-4450-2828
France - Paris
Tel: 33-1-69-53-63-20
Germany - Munich
Tel: 49-89-627-144-0
Italy - Milan
Tel: 39-0331-742611
Netherlands - Drunen
Tel: 31-416-690399
Spain - Madrid
Tel: 34-91-708-08-90
UK - Wokingham
Tel: 44-118-921-5869
ASIA/PACIFIC
Australia - Sydney
Tel: 61-2-9868-6733
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Tel: 86-10-8528-2100
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Tel: 852-2401-1200
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Tel: 86-25-8473-2460
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Tel: 86-21-5407-5533
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Tel: 86-755-8203-2660
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Tel: 86-592-2388138
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China - Zhuhai
Tel: 86-756-3210040
ASIA/PACIFIC
India - Bangalore
Tel: 91-80-3090-4444
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Tel: 91-11-4160-8631
India - Pune
Tel: 91-20-2566-1512
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Tel: 81-45-471- 6166
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Tel: 82-53-744-4301
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Tel: 82-2-554-7200
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Tel: 60-3-6201-9857
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Tel: 60-4-227-8870
Philippines - Manila
Tel: 63-2-634-9065
Singapore
Tel: 65-6334-8870
Taiwan - Hsin Chu
Tel: 886-3-572-9526
Taiwan - Kaohsiung
Tel: 886-7-536-4818
Taiwan - Taipei
Tel: 886-2-2500-6610
Thailand - Bangkok
Tel: 66-2-694-1351
1/26/09
Information subject to change. The Microchip name and logo, the Microchip logo and PIC are registered trademarks of Microchip
Technology Incorporated in the U.S.A. and other countries. FilterLab, MXDEV and MXLAB are registered trademarks of Microchip
Technology Incorporated in the U.S.A. FanSense, Select Mode and WiperLock are trademarks of Microchip Technology Incorporated
in the U.S.A. and other countries. All other trademarks mentioned herein are property of their respective companies.
2010, Microchip Technology Incorporated. All Rights Reserved. Printed in the U.S.A. 4/10
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Chandler, AZ 85224-6199
Mouser Electronics
Authorized Distributor
Click to View Pricing, Inventory, Delivery & Lifecycle Information:
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